Kamaru Usman talks UFC return at "tail end" of career, shares plans to face top-ranked welterweight next: "It's an interesting spot"

Former UFC welterweight king Kamaru Usman is planning his return to the octagon after a three-fight skid.

Usman, who has been sidelined since a losing effort to Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 294 last year, acknowledged his unique position. While open to a return at middleweight, the 37-year-old is leaning towards welterweight for his comeback.

During a recent appearance on The Anik & Florian Podcast, Usman even named potential opponents. When asked about facing Shavkat Rakhmonov, Ian Garry, Jack Della Maddalena, or Belal Muhammad, Usman didn't hesitate.

"It's an interesting spot. I've never been in a spot like this... For me, I made my career being a welterweight.... But, for the right fight, middleweight makes sense…"

Usman acknowledged that he's nearing retirement but expressed a desire to finish strong:

"I know I’m at the tail end, let me finish the career the right way and then decide what else I want to do. So, I’m just getting healthy right now… Oh yes, [I’ll face one of them next].”

Check out Kamaru Usman's comments below (1:58:06):

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A look into Kamaru Usman's career arc in the UFC

Kamaru Usman has carved a remarkable path through the UFC welterweight division. Debuting in 2015, 'The Nigerian Nightmare' quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with, winning his first nine fights inside the octagon.

Usman's dominance culminated in a welterweight title shot against Tyron Woodley in 2019, which he secured via a dominant unanimous decision. He went on to defend his title five times, defeating notable challengers like Colby Covington, Jorge Masvidal, and Gilbert Burns.

However, Usman's reign at the top ended in 2022 when Leon Edwards, whom he had previously beaten in 2015, knocked him out in a rematch. Usman then lost two more fights in 2023, one a rematch against Edwards and another against Khamzat Chimaev in his middleweight debut.

Despite the recent setbacks, Usman's career remains impressive. He holds the record for most wins in UFC welterweight history and has established himself as one of the best fighters of his generation.